Texas Senate Bill SB1907

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the requirements regarding reporting by a common carrier or pipeline owner or operator of contamination.

Impact

The bill introduces specific reporting criteria, whereby contamination must be reported if hydrocarbons are found on the surface of water, if soil is affected over a certain distance, or if soil contamination extends beyond the excavation area. Additionally, it includes provisions for extending reporting deadlines if they fall on specified days, thereby aiming to prevent delays in reporting due to scheduling issues. These updates could significantly alter how pollution from pipeline operations is managed and traced, adding a layer of accountability for pipeline operators.

Summary

SB1907 focuses on the necessity for common carriers and pipeline operators in Texas to report any subsurface petroleum-based contamination of soil or water that they encounter during the maintenance or repair of pipelines. It amends existing requirements under the Natural Resources Code, aiming to enhance the scrutiny of contamination incidents and ensure that relevant parties, including landowners, are notified promptly.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1907 revolve around liability and the extent of oversight. While the bill offers protections for pipeline owners from liability for contamination they report, critics may argue that such provisions could undermine public accountability and fall short of ensuring environmental safety. There's an underlying tension between the need for infrastructure development and the imperatives of environmental preservation, which can lead to debates among stakeholders regarding the balance between economic growth and ecological protection.